A Guide to Choosing the Right Finish for Your Natural Stone Countertop

 

 

1. Polished – A polished finish is what most people imagine when they think of granite and marble – smooth, shiny, and well, “polished” looking. The polished finish brings out the character and full color of the stone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Honed – This finish is a little softer, and does not reflect the high gloss intensity of polish. Although it has the smooth touch of a polished surface, it’s less shiny for a more traditional, informal surface. This can be described as a matte finish. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Antiqued/Brushed – A brushed finish gives the illusion of natural wear on the surface.  Although it is more textured to the touch, it is just as impervious to stains with a sealant on it as the polished finish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Flamed – This finish is achieved using intense heat on the stone surface, creating a rough texture. This finish is often used on outdoor projects due to its tough exterior qualities. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Leathered – This finish is only applicable to marble, and gives a slip-resistant, smooth feel with a likeness to suede.